A-frame tents, shaped like the letter “A”, are typically small, durable and sleep 2-3 people, with a waterproof floor, mosquito screen vents and doors. The breathable fabric allows the moisture from inside to be released while the waterproof rain fly protects the outside.

Dome tents are the most popular tent shapes, with poles bend over the body of the tent that give it plenty of stability, even in strong winds. They have spacious interiors with plenty of headroom.

Walled tents are large “condo” looking tents with walls, a ceiling and lots of room. A ridgepole runs between upright poles to hold the tent up. They basically use the same wall materials (nylon and polyester),but are more bulky to transport and more difficult to setup. Ideal for long campouts.

A good sleeping bag to keep you warm at night is the other essential for comfortable camping. You may use a sleeping pad between you and the cold ground which will give you a cushy sleep surface. The best choices for pads are foam, self-inflating pads, or air mattress.

Lastly is the food, and the preparation of it that is essential for enjoyable camping and outdoor cooking. You may choose to bring with you hot dogs with corn-on-the-cob and some brownies and milk for dessert or scrambled eggs, bacon, orange juice, brown toast and coffee for the morning. The perishable items will fit into a cooler that is easy to transport and store.

You will also need a camp stove and a cooking kit consisting of pots and pans and some disposable plates, cups and utensils. Most campsites have a picnic table and grill or BBQ. so you have to bring some charcoal along with you.Camping Essentials – Checklist